9 Asian-inspired restaurants, markets, gardens and more in Birmingham
Reading time: 4 minutes
Ever dreamed of visiting the Taj Mahal or the Great Wall of China without leaving the city? You’re in luck!
Birmingham is full of authentic Asian-inspired restaurants, markets, gardens and more.
Keep reading to explore the richness of Asian culture we have right here in The Magic City.
This guide was originally created in February 2023 and was last updated in September 2024.
Restaurants + markets
1. Bay Leaf
Bay Leaf is the perfect companion for anyone who loves bold, spicy flavors.
Try their Tahgra Chili Chicken that’s inspired from the eats in the streets of Tangra, Kolkata.
- Location: 1024 20th St S Unit 101, Birmingham, AL 35205
- Hours: Monday-Thursday, 11AM-2:30PM, 5-9:30PM | Friday + Saturday, 5-10PM | Sunday, 5-9PM
- Website | Instagram | Facebook
2. Super Oriental Market
Red Pearl’s Asian market, Super Oriental Market is one of my favorite markets in Birmingham.
It is the perfect place to take in Asian culture and find new and exciting food varieties.
- Location: 243 W Valley Ave, Homewood, AL 35209
- Hours: Daily | 9AM-9PM
- Website | Facebook
3. Shu Shop
Shu Shop is an authentic Japanese restaurant best known for its delicious ramen and fun sake flavors.
If you are looking for a stellar food menu and good vibes, this is the place to be.
- Location: 1820 3rd Ave N, Birmingham, AL 35203
- Hours: Tuesday-Thursday, 5-11PM | Friday + Saturday, 5PM-1AM
- Website | Instagram
4. Red Pearl
For those of you craving genuine Chinese cuisine, Red Pearl has it all and more.
I’ve eaten the General Tso’s chicken more times than I’d like to admit and will continue to do so.
- Location: 243 W Valley Ave, Homewood, AL 35209
- Hours: Daily | 10AM-8:30PM
- Website | Facebook
5. Mr. Chen’s
You can’t think about Birmingham Chinese food without thinking of Mr. Chen’s.
They are best known for their variety in taste and their incredibly fresh ingredients.
- Location: 808 Green Springs Hwy #140, Homewood, AL 35209
- Hours: Daily | 11AM-9PM
- Website | Facebook
6. Hometown Supermarket
Hometown Supermarket is the Asian market connected to Mr. Chen’s.
You can find fresh fish, produce, dry goods and more, all without leaving the country.
- Location: 808 Green Springs Hwy #140, Homewood, AL 35209
- Hours: Daily | 10AM-9PM
- Website | Facebook
Gardens + temples
7. Japanese Garden at Birmingham Botanical Gardens
One of my favorite spots in the city is the Japanese Garden at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens.
There you can find coy fish, beautiful red bridges, Japanese-style huts, Asian-native plants and much more.
- Location: 2612 Lane Park Rd Birmingham, AL 35223
- Hours: Daily | 7AM-6PM
- Website | Instagram | Facebook
8. Birmingham Museum of Art Sculpture Garden
Looking for a place to relax and unwind? Look no further than the Sculpture Garden at the Birmingham Museum of Art.
It has multiple Hindu and Indian-inspired pieces, plus Japanese cherry blossom trees blooming in the spring.
- Location: 2000 Rev. Abraham Woods, Jr. Blvd, Birmingham, AL 35203
- Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 10AM-5PM | Sunday, Noon-5PM
- Website | Instagram | Facebook
9. Hindu Temple
Whether you’re a part of the Hindu religion or interested in learning more, the Hindu Temple is an awe-inspiring place.
While you explore the rich culture through paintings and temples, it’s hard to remember you’re still in Birmingham.
- Location: 200 N Chandalar Dr Apt#1, Pelham, AL 35124
- Hours: Monday-Friday, 9-11:30AM, 5:30-8:30PM | Saturday + Sunday, 9AM-12:30PM, 5-8:30PM
- Website | Facebook
Map
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Contributors to this guide include Emma Johnston + Sarah Morgan Freeman.